Is the Farmers Insurance Open cursed this year? First, wind gusts ruined Round 2, forcing a delay, and now there’s another setback—and this one’s hitting fans hard.

Remember how Ludvig Aberg hooked everyone with his opening round? He delivered an incredible nine-under-par 63, topping the leaderboard by two shots. We’re talking eight birdies, an eagle, and just one bogey, his best opening round of his career to date. “Super happy with the way we kind of came out of the gates today and played some good golf,” the 25-year-old said afterward. And honestly, it looked like he was unstoppable.

But fast forward to Round 3, things aren’t looking as great now. Åberg has dropped to T13 after shooting a three-over-par 75. Now, a leaderboard shuffle isn’t unusual in golf, but this feels different. It turns out that Åberg is dealing with the flu. Yes, the guy who absolutely crushed it at Tiger Woods’ TGL just weeks ago is now battling through an illness while trying to stay in contention.

If you missed it, Åberg made TGL history recently, sinking the league’s first-ever hole-in-one with a clutch putt that helped The Bay Golf Club dominate New York Golf Club 5-0.

Naturally, fans were excited to see what comes next. But alas! Here we are. Now that his health woes have pushed him back, fans are worried for the golfer.

Fans show concern regarding Ludvig Aberg’s health

When you’re not feeling your best, it’s bound to show in your work and Åberg’s recent performance on the course has already hinted at what’s going on. Fans quickly connected the dots about his flu after his Round 3 struggles. As one fan wrote, “That explains why he isn’t playing well,” another echoed the sentiment, saying, “Yeah, he’s actually sick.”

Of course, golf fans are never short on creativity. One even made a playful jab at Åberg’s incredible eight birdies from Round 1, writing, “Yeah, birdie fever.” Others, however, were more supportive. “Get well, pal!!!” one fan posted, sending best wishes to the golfer.

But not everyone was so understanding. Critics were lurking in the comment section, with one accusing Åberg of using his illness as a cover for his poor showing. “No he’s not just need an excuse why he shot 75 after 64.”

Ouch. That seems like an unfair take for someone like Åberg, who’s proven his mettle time and again. Let’s not forget, he’s coming off a tough 2024 season, which was winless for the rising star. This is also the same golfer who underwent knee surgery last year. Despite the setbacks, he’s staying optimistic and determined. He even said he’s “looking forward to a nice stretch of golf” [via PGA Tour], and there’s no doubt he’s capable of making it happen.

For now, let’s hope he bounces back soon, both health-wise and on the leaderboard.